Restoration mortars for the Volubilis calcarenite stone

A compatible mortar formulation for the restoration of Volubilis' calcarenite stone, a key material at Morocco's UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been identified. The study found that incorporating brick dust as a lime substitute in aerial lime-based mortars significantly enhances compressive strength while reducing porosity and capillary absorption—critical properties for preservation. Conversely, using brick dust as an aggregate increases these undesirable traits. Regional materials like washed dolomitic sand were also integrated into nine mortar mixes, which underwent physical and mechanical testing after one month of maturation. The research confirms the pozzolanicity of brick dust, offering a promising approach to balancing durability with material compatibility for future conservation efforts at Volubilis.

Issam, A., Kevin, B., Xavier, B., Dalal, B., Khalid, C., Ali, C., & Muzahim, A.-M. (2017). Restoration mortars for the Volubilis calcarenite stone. Procedia Structural Integrity, 5, 1123–1128. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prostr.2017.07.106